This week marks a major milestone for Pittsburgh-based pop-punk outfit Main Street Detour, as they release their highly anticipated sophomore album, Becoming Someone You Knew. With an introspective look at personal growth, emotional highs, and the challenge of self-discovery, the album encapsulates the band’s evolution since their debut in 2020.

“This album is a collection of memories and emotions that we have compiled from the past years of our lives,” explains vocalist and bassist Shane Cepull. “It’s about striving to be better and embracing the moments that shape us, even when they’re hard.”

Recorded over two years, Becoming Someone You Knew demonstrates meticulous care, with the band perfecting everything from its production to the striking album artwork. The project also marks a period of tremendous artistic growth for Main Street Detour, who have matured as musicians and collaborators since their formation in 2019.

The album features five new tracks alongside fan-favorite singles like “Killing Me,” “Joy,” and “L.S.D.,” with a seamless flow that adds depth to each song. Among the band’s personal highlights are:

• “Joy”: An anthemic track balancing bittersweet themes with a soaring energy.
• “The One That Got Away”: A poignant narrative filled with raw emotion.
• “Stepping Stone”: A powerful closer reflecting the challenges of transformation.

“Friction makes fire,” Cepull says, nothing that these favorites were also the hardest to record. “They demonstrated everything from us, and I think it shows in the final result.”

2024 has been a banner year for the band. Starting with a regional tour across Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Cleveland, they gained momentum through a spring single release and opening for Belmont and Can’t Swim in their hometown. They also embarked on a Northeast tour with fellow Pittsburgh band Crash Nebula, cementing their reputation as a rising force in pop-punk.

To cap off this incredible year, the band will celebrate Becoming Someone You Knew with a release at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls on January 18, 2025, joined by Crash Nebula, Heading North, and My Favorite Liar.

Main Street Detour began as a trio in 2019, with Shane Cepull (vocals, bass), Niko Vasilatos (vocals, guitar), and Daniel Falk (vocals, drums). In 2023, they expanded their lineup, welcoming guitarist Carter Payne to bring a fuller, more dynamic sound.

Known for their vibrant live performances, the band draws influences from emo staples like Modern Baseball and Joyce Manor, blending high-energy pop-punk with elements of hardcore. Their shows are packed with sing-alongs, finger-pointing, and a palpable sense of camaraderie that makes them a must-see for fans of the genre.

Becoming Someone You Knew is now available on all major streaming platforms. Don’t miss the chance to experience the next chapter of Main Street Detour’s journey!